Episode Details

How Working During Retirement Costs Money

Working past age 62 can quietly cost more than it pays. This deep dive unpacks the Social Security Retirement Earnings Test (2026 limits and 50% withholding rates), the “substantial services” rules that can claw back benefits even with zero profit, the special monthly test for mid-year retirees, and the far more dangerous “tax torpedo” created by the provisional-income formula that can push effective marginal rates above 40%. Hosts also cover never-inflation-adjusted benefit-taxation thresholds, IRMAA Medicare premium cliffs, and the projected 2032 Trust Fund shortfall. Practical defenses include pre-claim Roth conversions, Qualified Charitable Distributions, and IRMAA appeals. The episode closes by reframing true retirement as reclaiming sovereignty over who profits from the value you create.

Runtime ≈ 22 minutes. Essential listening for anyone approaching or navigating early retirement.

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Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It reflects one approach to investing and retirement planning and should not be considered personalized financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult qualified professionals before making financial decisions.

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